From the Iowa Attorney General: Tips to Protect Yourself From Scams

Before you send or transfer any money, consider these warning signs. 

Criminal organizations are scamming Iowans with more sophisticated methods than ever before. These criminals contact you in numerous ways, like phone calls, text messages, emails, social media, online games, or dating sites. They use lies to gain your trust before requesting money. When the fraudster finally asks for money, a lot of the time they will demand immediate payment.

Before investing, ensure the investment and the person selling it are registered with the Iowa Insurance Division. Talk to your friends, family, and trusted individuals (like your bank) about the situation. If you suspect a scam, report it to the Iowa Attorney General's Office, local law enforcement, and the Iowa Insurance Division. Be very careful - once you send money to a fraudster, it's almost impossible to get back.

Signs that you are getting scammed

• Someone you met online asks for money
• You're instructed to keep a secret or not discuss this with anyone
• You're instructed to transfer money to protect your money
• You're instructed to get cash and mail it somewhere
• You're instructed to deposit money into a Bitcoin machine
• You're promised a guaranteed return on your investment
• You're instructed to purchase gift cards to make a payment

For more resources on reporting fraud, check out the following: 

• www.iowafraudfighters.gov
• www.reportfraud.ftc.gov
• Call IA Attorney General at 1-888-777-4590
• Go online to IA Attorney General to www.iowaattorneygeneral.gov/for-consumers/file-a-consumer-complaint

Article taken from the Iowa Department of Insurance and Financial Services.